Focus Area: Early Childhood

Grant Amount: $10,000

Located in South Minneapolis. Established in 1993, UV works to address opportunity gaps in academics, nutrition, physical activity, parenting resources, and more—all with the overarching goal to prepare and send every youth in their neighborhood to college or postsecondary education. It operates a youth center south of Lake Street with opportunities for youth in STEM and music production and also, various parenting and family support programs. UV established an early learning program in 2021 called the Cornwell Early Learning Center (CELC) to help give a strong start to children from the Phillips and Central neighborhoods. CELC received a 4-star Parent Aware rating in 2022. The children served are primarily Spanish speaking and the CELC staff reflects this community.

Grant supports the mental health components of the Cornwell Early Learning Center. The CELC works with Washburn Center for Children, who sends a therapist over to work on issues related to trauma and other mental health issues. A half-time teacher is pursuing her degree in infant mental health and works with children ages 6 months to 3 years when issues arise. Staff receive coaching around trauma and mental health issues form the Center for Inclusive Childcare.